underbelly
word
Definition
'Underbelly' literally means the underside of an animal’s body. More often, it refers to the hidden, vulnerable, or morally questionable part of something, such as a city or organization.
Usage & Nuances
'Underbelly' is formal and mainly used in journalism or literature to highlight hidden or negative aspects ('the criminal underbelly of society'). Literal use (animal anatomy) is rare. Common collocations: 'the dark underbelly', 'expose the underbelly'. Not used for everyday objects or people.
Example Sentences
The cat has a white underbelly.
basic
Some cities have a hidden underbelly.
basic
The reporter exposed the criminal underbelly of the town.
basic
Tourists rarely see the real underbelly of the city at night.
natural
Corruption is often the dark underbelly of politics.
natural
The documentary showed the underbelly of the fashion industry that no one talks about.
natural